Epic's Tim Sweeney Claims Billions to Battle Apple and Google

Epic Games continues its intense legal and financial battle against Apple and Google as CEO Tim Sweeney reveals the company has spent billions fighting for Fortnite's return to mobile platforms. Epic opposes the standard 30% store fees and aims to allow mobile players to access its games through its own Epic Games Store. Despite some legal progress in Europe due to the Digital Markets Act, Fortnite is still blocked on U.S. iOS devices nearly five years after being removed. Epic recently launched third-party games on its mobile platform while tackling expensive Core Technology Fees imposed by Apple. As Epic invests heavily in its mobile ambitions, Sweeney remains optimistic about breaking down barriers, despite concerns over the sustainability of ongoing costs.

Epic Games aims to establish its Epic Games Store on mobile devices, avoiding high store fees by offering a competitive 88/12 revenue share model. Sweeney believes this long-term investment will enhance opportunities for Epic and other developers, despite facing significant costs and operational challenges. The company remains committed to fighting for a fair marketplace for mobile gaming.

Fortnite, launched in 2017, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, establishing itself as one of the top-grossing games worldwide. Its popularity has led Epic Games to expand significantly beyond traditional gaming, focusing on creating an ecosystem that encourages competition and accessibility in mobile gaming. Epic's Unreal Engine has also revolutionized game development, solidifying the company’s influential role in the industry.